Eastern Equatoria State Governor Louis Lobong Lojore urged the Pari community in Lafon County to maintain peace and security with neighboring groups while increasing efforts in agriculture.
The governor’s remarks followed his weekend visit to the area, where residents raised concerns over insecurity, child abductions, hunger and poor road conditions.
Last year, youth demanding the removal of the county commissioner, Magisto Ukach Agweri, forced the closure of his office. The SPLM secretary-general was also assaulted after some community members accused him of obstructing the commissioner’s removal.
Speaking at a gathering in Lafon on Sunday, Governor Lojore declared that this year “must be a year of peace.”
“We need to focus on diversifying the economy to avoid over-dependence on oil,” he said, encouraging residents to utilize agricultural resources. He also advised the community to let the ruling SPLM party decide the commissioner’s fate.
Lafon County Magisto Ukachi Agweri outlined challenges in the county, including poverty due to outdated farming methods, poor education standards stemming from parental neglect, and insecurity. He also appealed for the upgrade of Lafon’s primary health care center to a hospital.
Elia John Ahaji, Eastern Equatoria’s information minister and government spokesperson, said the governor’s visit aimed to hear residents’ concerns.
He called on the youth to respect government authority while continuing traditional practices.